Who is Dying German Sailor from Islands in the Stream and what is their importance?

They dying German sailor has a special place in this novel. He has already left this life by the time Thomas and his crew find the man. The German sailor only smiles ruefully when Thomas demands information and threatens torture because there is no further pain that can be inflicted. The German has endured past this point, which Thomas respects. This scene carries profound meaning that Hemingway does not explain. He leaves the interpretation up to the reader.